We met Bruce and his son in the Tribune Tower lobby yesterday afternoon at 12:45pm. It’s an imposing lobby with inscribed pearls of wisdom from journalistic greats all the way up the marble walls. Bruce looked a bit nervous, but was excited to talk to one of his favorite radio personalities, Bob Sirott.
When we were led into the WGN green room by Bob & Marianne’s producer Kristin Decker, we learned that Bruce was the very first guest to use this newly rebuilt and redecorated room. After a short wait, we were brought into the studio. Most shows don’t allow the “entourage” to come in the studio for the interview, but Bob and Marianne let all of us (Eckhartz Press co-publishers Rick Kaempfer & David Stern, plus Bruce’s son) witness the event.
Any nervousness Bruce might have had evaporated instantly when Bob and Marianne made him feel at ease and at home. Bruce and Bob talked about mutual acquaintances, and Marianne was fascinated with the process of writing a book (she is working on one herself). As soon as the microphones were turned on, Bruce handled the interview like a pro. It helped that Sirott is a giant Cubs fan and really enjoyed the book. There was an instant bond there.
The studio windows leading to Michigan Avenue that had been empty when the interview began, started to fill up as onlookers wanted to see what this Wrigley Field usher looked like.
The interview itself went incredibly well. You can listen to it here.
Below is a photo gallery from Bruce’s day at WGN Radio. It’s a day that the former Wrigley Field Usher, and author of “Best Seat in the House: Diary of a Wrigley Field Usher” will never forget.
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